When it comes to managing one’s career, you need both – Mentors and Sponsors. One might think they are similar, but they perform very different and distinct roles. In short, Mentors talk with you. Sponsors advocate for you.
Mentors: What Are They?
Mentors provide feedback, guidance, and advice to help to support your development and growth—personally and professionally. Mentors have relevant experience, expertise, and context to help you learn and grow. They willingly invest time and attention to help with skill development and career clarity. I think of Mentors as those that model the way and inspire what is possible.
How Do You Find a Mentor?
Seek out individuals (peers or leaders) who have relevant experience or expertise that you can benefit from. Cast a wide net so you have multiple people to garner insight and advice from versus limiting yourself to one or two people. Once you have identified potential Mentors, ask for a conversation for insight or advice. Use the conversation as the starting point for cultivating your Mentee/Mentor relationship.
What Will Make You an Impressive Mentee?
First, recognize that you own your career development. Take responsibility for nurturing your Mentee/Mentor relationships by being prepared and engaged for the time you spend together. Ask for and be respective of your Mentor’s time and advice, align on expectations for the Mentee/Mentor relationship, and do your part to add value or to make the relationship as mutually beneficial as possible.
Sponsors: What Are They?
A Sponsor leverages the positional power and influence they have in an organization to proactively advocate for you and the career opportunities that will help you grow.
What Makes a Sponsor Effective?
Sponsors provide promotion opportunities and visibility. They invest their time and risk their reputations endorsing those that they sponsor. Effective Sponsors acquire a keen awareness of one’s strengths and weaknesses in order to provide you with candid feedback and to best position you for the appropriate career growth opportunities. They have the authority and influence to garner the support needed for you to be placed in the necessary roles and/or to receive the critical assignments.
How Do You Find a Sponsor?
Most often, they find you! And typically, Sponsor-Sponsee relationships develop naturally. The key is the role you play in helping them find you! First and foremost, you need to have a track record of delivering consistent, high-impact results. Second, you want to have a mastery level of functional/technical skill in your area of expertise and demonstrated proficiency in the Leadership Competencies that are important in your organization. Be clear about what you want career-wise and make sure the right people know. Finally, cultivate relationships with people of influence in your organization. It is not just about who you know; but more importantly, who knows you.
Mentors vs Sponsors: Final Thoughts
I once heard someone say, “Mentors light the path; sponsors open the door.” Enhance your career journey by including both Mentors and Sponsors. Cultivate your Mentor and Sponsor relationships: be strategic with your selection, diversify for breadth, nurture by being intentional, prepared, and grateful. Reassess, as things change.